General Camping Tips

Looking at the big picture of it, camping is a simple, even minimalist enterprise. Camping can be said to consist of simply getting used to residing outside instead of inside. Despite its apparent simplicity, camping does have several ways and means to make the experience more fun, more efficient and safer.

The centerpiece of the camping endeavor is the tent, or in most of our visitors cases, an RV. If you prefer a tent, here are three tips you should know:

1. If you haven’t set up a tent before, take some time to set it up at home before you leave on your trip.
2. At the campsite, find a spot slightly uphill from the rest of your camp, if possible. That way, if it rains, you’ll be protected from puddles/flooding.
3. Lay down a tarp underneath the tent. This will help keep you warm and dry.

The good news about RV camping, is that you don’t have to worry about rain, or staying warm, but you will need to know how to properly use your RV and amenities. Before you leave on your trip, you should:

1. Check propane levels and fill water tanks.
2. Check battery levels.
3. Make sure you have adequate leveling tools, whether that be blocks or hydraulic levels. If using hydraulic levels, make sure they are operational before leaving your house.
4. Ensure you know how to operate all aspects of your unit, including starting the water heater, operating the dumping system, starting the pilot light(s), expanding and contracting pop-outs, etc.

At home, in the weeks before your trip, set aside time to take inventory of everything you need. Will you need ropes, tarps, a compass or knife? Will you need to start a campfire? 

Make sure you bring all of your essentials as well, including:

• A dependable tent if you’ll be tent camping.
• A tarp
• Warm, water-proof sleeping bag(s)
• Cooking items: pan, pot, dishes, forks, spoons, knives, a spatula
• Matches or a lighter
• A sturdy utility knife
• Rope (it may come in handy)
• Lots of drinking water.
• A cooler that closes tightly, more than one if needed
• Chairs
• Soap and hand sanitizer

With these supplies in tow, your camping experience should be safe, simple, and rewarding. Happy camping!